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THE FIRST AGBU SCOUT CAMP IN ARMENIA

The first scout camp under the auspices of the Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU) Armenian Youth Association (AYA) opened on July 24 in Lermontovo village of Armenia’s Lori region. Armenian youth from the Middle East countries, Lebanon, Tehran and Syria – a total of 165 scouts – will spend 14 days in the beautiful nature of Lori region and strengthen ties with their compatriots. The second group of scouts will arrive in the first half of August. The opening ceremony of the camp was attended by Lori governor Aram Kocharian, AGBU Armenian Representation Director Ashot Ghazarian, Primate of the Gugark Diocese of the Armenian Apostolic Church Bishop Sepuh Chuldjian, Grand Sexton of the Holy See of St. Etchmiadzin Bishop Ararat Galtakchian and others. “This is a historical moment for all of us. Each of us must have its share of contribution in the development of our motherland, Diaspora and Artsakh. Local and regional administration will always be next to the scouts to help them overcome the difficulties”, said Lori governor Aram Kocharian. As Ashot Ghazarian, Director of the AGBU Armenian Representation, said it was less than a year ago when after lasting discussions the Lori governor gave his approval to organize the scout camp in Lori. “Two months ago together with the President of the Social Investment Fund Ashot Kirakossian we breathed life into this previously desert area and welcomed our scouts perfectly ready on July 22. This program will have its continuation in Armenia. Our scouts must pass on their moods to their other Armenian friends”, said Ashot Ghazarian in his speech. Grant Sexton of the Holy See of St. Etchmiadzin Bishop Ararat Galtakchian had brought the All-Armenian Catholicos Karekin II’s blessing to the Armenian scouts. Armenian scouts, 50 from Tehran, 95 from Syria, and 20 from Armenia, introduced an important and memorable day in the Armenian history of the third millennium maintaining the strong ties between the youth of Diaspora and Armenia.